Hawe Creek
4.64276 reviews1505 Chamberlains Ferry Rd, McCormick, SC 29835, USA
Hawe Creek
$28.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$32.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Site fees during peak season range from $28 to $32 per night. Peak season runs from March 28 to September 7.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil shores of J. Strom Thurmond Lake, Hawe Creek Campground offers an intimate escape with just 34 thoughtfully positioned campsites. Most sites embrace the waterfront, where morning mist rises from the lake and gentle waves lap against the shore. Each campsite comes equipped with electric hookups, while modern comforts including flush toilets, hot showers, and fresh drinking water ensure a comfortable stay. A convenient dump station and boat ramp make this hidden gem perfect for both RV enthusiasts and boating adventurers seeking a peaceful lakeside retreat.
Hawe Creek Campground caters to diverse camping preferences with its 34 campsites, most of which are waterfront. It supports RV and tent camping, making it a versatile destination.
Historical SignificanceHawe Creek Campground serves as your gateway to the region's rich golfing heritage. Just minutes away, the charming Savannah Lakes Village and historic Hickory Knob State Park beckon with their renowned golf courses carved through pristine Southern landscapes. The campground's proximity to Augusta places you within reach of hallowed golfing ground, where the world's most prestigious tournament, the Masters, unfolds each spring amid blooming azaleas and time-honored traditions.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Southern seasons at Hawe Creek, where sultry summer days reach a peak of 91°F in July, perfect for swimming and water sports. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forests burst into color while temperatures become delightfully mild. Winter brings gentle, pleasant days ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. While summer months of June, July, and August see refreshing afternoon showers that cool the air and nourish the forest, May typically offers drier conditions perfect for outdoor adventures.
ElevationThe campground rests at a gentle elevation along the rolling shoreline of J. Strom Thurmond Lake, where the landscape gradually transitions from water's edge to forested hillsides, creating varied terrain perfect for exploration and scenic views.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where towering pines mingle with majestic hardwoods, creating a dappled canopy that shelters the campground. The pristine waters of J. Strom Thurmond Lake stretch before you, reflecting sky and forest in its mirror-like surface. This thriving ecosystem rewards patient observers with spectacular wildlife encounters—from the majestic flight of bald eagles soaring overhead to graceful migratory waterfowl dancing across the water. Wild turkeys strut through the underbrush while whitetail deer emerge at dawn and dusk, completing this enchanting natural tableau.
Geological RegionDiscover the natural splendor of the southeastern United States at Hawe Creek Campground, where ancient geological forces have carved a landscape of remarkable beauty. The campground graces the heavily forested shorelines of J. Strom Thurmond Lake, a magnificent reservoir cradled by rolling hills. Here, the distinctive mixed pine and hardwood forests of the Southeast create a lush, green sanctuary that changes with the seasons, offering a perfect blend of aquatic and terrestrial environments unique to this captivating region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCampground features are generally accessible, but specific accessibility features for disabled individuals were not highlighted in reviews.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with many accommodating modern 35-40 ft campers. One user noted, "Huge campsites!"
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer substantial privacy, with many reviews highlighting the spacious layout. "The campsites are large and well-separated, offering privacy," said one user.
Total Campsites34 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose waterfront sites for proximity to the lake. Site 31 and Site 32 are noted for their views and accessibility.
Best CampsitesSite 31 is highly rated for its waterfront location with easy access, while Site 32 offers expansive views and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No more than 12 campers allowed per site.
Groups
No group camping facilities are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spaced out for privacy and generally feature waterfront views. Each site includes a picnic table, fire pit, counter-height table, grill, and lantern pole.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from late March to early September; closed during fall and winter months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are not available; all sites must be reserved in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Changes to stay dates incur a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Hawe Creek Campground offers a variety of activities centered around its location on J. Strom Thurmond Lake. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking, birding, hiking, and swimming. The lake provides a serene environment for relaxation and skill-building. "The lake isn't very busy, so we can kayak all day long," said one user. Wildlife enthusiasts may see southern bald eagles, wild turkeys, and deer.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available, although no specific trails are listed. The campground's wooded environment offers areas for nature walks.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Hawe Creek. Anglers have caught largemouth bass, catfish, and bream. "The fishing is great, and the whole lake is beautiful," mentioned a camper.Swimming
Swimming is an option, although no designated swim areas are mentioned. Many sites provide direct access to the lake, making it suitable for a quick dip.Biking
The campground's paved roads offer opportunities for biking. "The mix of flat areas and hills make for an interesting trek," noted one user.Boating
The campground has a boat ramp and courtesy dock, making it ideal for boating. Activities include water skiing, jet skiing, and kayaking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with sightings of southern bald eagles, migratory waterfowl, and deer. "We saw water snakes and a black scorpion—pretty cool for nature lovers," one camper reported.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during winter months, limiting activities during this season.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular. "Bring your paddleboards—you'll really enjoy them here," said one visitor.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings or grills; dead wood must be gathered locally.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep banks at some waterfront sites may pose access challenges, and poison ivy is present around some campsites.
Active alertsGate access issues may restrict early morning departures. Seasonal closures limit availability.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include McCormick County Hospital (approximately 6 miles away) and McCormick County Sheriff's Office (approximately 6 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 28 - September 7.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are conveniently located within the campground for waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on J. Strom Thurmond Lake. Waterfront sites provide immediate access to the lake for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Common complaintsLimited phone service, unreliable electricity at some sites, seasonal closures, and steep waterfront banks are frequently mentioned.
HostHosts are generally praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. Hosts Walter, Patrick, and Diana are frequently mentioned for exceptional service.
Campground Map
1505 Chamberlains Ferry Rd, McCormick, SC 29835, USA
Driving directionsFrom the junction of HWY 221 and HWY 378 in McCormick, SC, travel southwest on US 378, then south 4 miles on Chamberlains Ferry Road. Road ends at campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, and directions from nearby highways are straightforward. Seasonal closures and emergency gate locks may restrict early morning access.Nearby places
McCormick, SC (6 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Augusta, GA (approximately 45 miles, 1 hour drive).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be sourced from Food Lion and hardware stores in McCormick, SC (6 miles away). More options are available in Augusta, GA (45 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.6
276 reviews
Hawe Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Hawe Creek Campground is highly praised for its cleanliness, spacious sites, and attentive hosts. "This is by far our favorite campground! The hosts are phenomenal," stated one reviewer. However, some users noted issues with power reliability and limited cell service.
Review Summaries
Based on 276 reviews
What Campers Love
Cleanliness, spacious and private campsites, exceptional hosts, and beautiful lake views with direct water access from most sites.
Based on 276 reviewsCommon Concerns
The campground's seasonal operation is a common complaint, with many users requesting year-round availability. Other issues include power outages, steep banks to water access, and limited cell...
Based on 276 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Plan for limited cell service and bring a power backup. Sites 31 and 32 are highly recommended for their beautiful lake views. "Bring your paddleboards and kayaks," suggested one user.
Based on 276 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the lake activities, while spring reviews focus on the quiet and scenic environment. Fall and winter camping is not possible due to seasonal closures.
Based on 276 reviewsCamper Quotes
"One of the best places to get away from it all," "The fishing is great, and the campground is clean," "Walt and Patrick are two of the best hosts I've ever met," "The sites are huge and private,"...
Based on 276 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 31 and 32 received praise for being right on the water and offering stunning views. Site 6 was noted for its privacy and large size.
Based on 276 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features were not extensively reviewed. However, the spacious layout and well-maintained facilities suggest general ease of use.
Based on 276 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but they must be leashed. "Our dogs loved walking around the campground," one reviewer noted.
Based on 276 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025